Post-Surgical & Orthopedic Rehabilitation · Lake Stevens

Physical therapy for recovery after surgery or an orthopedic injury

Recovering after surgery or an orthopedic injury takes more than time. With a plan matched to your procedure and your surgeon’s guidance, physical therapy can help you rebuild strength, movement, and confidence as you return to daily life.

Recovering from surgery and not sure where to start? Call our clinic and we can help you understand your options.

The physical therapy treatment gym at iCURE Physical Therapy in Lake Stevens

Our approach

A recovery plan matched to your procedure

Every surgery and every body heals differently. Care at iCURE begins with a careful evaluation and, when appropriate, coordination with your surgeon so your rehabilitation follows the right protocol and timeline for your procedure.

From there we guide you through each stage of recovery at a pace your healing allows, working to rebuild motion, strength, and function while protecting the surgical repair. You work directly with a licensed physical therapist who adjusts your plan as you progress.

A patient during a visit at the iCURE Physical Therapy clinic in Lake Stevens

What treatment may include

Your plan is based on your procedure, your surgeon’s guidance, and how you are healing, and it is adjusted as you progress.

  • Protected mobilityGentle, guided movement to restore range of motion while protecting the surgical site.
  • Progressive strengtheningExercises advanced over time to rebuild strength, control, and endurance.
  • Manual therapyHands-on techniques to support mobility and help manage stiffness and swelling.
  • Education & home programGuidance on activity, precautions, and what to do between visits.

Procedures we commonly help with

We support recovery after a range of orthopedic surgeries and procedures. Your therapist will confirm the right plan for your situation.

  • Joint replacement (knee, hip, shoulder)
  • Rotator cuff and shoulder surgery
  • ACL and knee ligament repair
  • Spine and back surgery
  • Fracture recovery
  • Tendon and ligament repair
  • Foot and ankle surgery
  • Hand and wrist surgery
  • Meniscus and cartilage procedures
  • Recovery after immobilization

How recovery progresses

1

Protect

Support the surgical repair, manage swelling, and restore early, comfortable movement.

2

Restore

Rebuild range of motion, strength, and control as your healing allows.

3

Return

Prepare for the demands of work, activity, and daily life.

Recovery timelines vary by procedure, your surgeon’s protocol, stage of healing, and your response to treatment.

Working with your surgical team

Post-surgical care often works best alongside your surgeon. We follow the protocols and precautions provided for your procedure and can communicate with your surgical team about your progress.

If your symptoms suggest a concern outside the scope of physical therapy, we will explain the recommendation and help you understand the next step.

Frequently asked questions

When can I start physical therapy after surgery?

It depends on your procedure and your surgeon’s guidance. Some patients begin within days, while others start later. We follow the protocol provided for your surgery and coordinate timing when needed.

Will you follow my surgeon’s protocol?

Yes. We follow the precautions and timeline your surgeon provides and can communicate with their office about your progress.

Will rehabilitation be uncomfortable?

Some discomfort is normal as motion and strength return, but we work within safe limits for your stage of healing and adjust based on how you respond.

How long does post-surgical rehabilitation take?

It varies with the procedure, your health, and how you heal. After your evaluation we can give you a realistic sense of your timeline and review it as you progress.

Do I need a referral or authorization?

It depends on your plan and procedure. Some surgical cases and insurance plans have specific requirements, and we can help you verify what is needed before treatment begins.

Planning your visit?

Find new-patient forms, insurance and referral information, clinic hours, and directions.

Ready to take the next step?

Tell us about your surgery or injury, and we will help you understand whether physical therapy may be appropriate and what to do next.

Request an Evaluation
Prefer to talk? Call 425-458-7261